Medication information

Givlaari 189mg/mL injectable

This medication is typically used for the treatment of porphyria.

Instructions

This product is usually injected under the skin (subcutaneously) by a health professional.

Depending on the dose which you have been prescribed, you may require from 1 to 3 injections of this agent. For multiple injections, choose a different site each time.

Side effects

In addition to its desired action, this medication may cause some side effects, notably:

  • it may cause unusual tiredness;
  • it may cause nausea or, rarely, vomiting;
  • it may cause redness and swelling at the injection site.

Each person may react differently to a treatment. If you think this medication may be causing side effects (including those described here, or others), talk to your health care professional. He or she can help you to determine whether or not the medication is the source of the problem.

Storage

As with most medications, this product should be stored at room temperature. Store it in a secure location where it will not be exposed to excessive heat, moisture or direct sunlight. This product must be kept in its original packaging. Do not transfer it to another container. If you have any questions, speak to the health care professionals who are overseeing your treatment.

Additional Information

This medication may interact with other medications or supplements, sometimes significantly. Many interactions, however, may be dealt with by a dosage adjustment or a change in medication schedule. Check with your pharmacist before using this medication in combination with any other medications (including non-prescription products), vitamins or natural products.

Blood tests must be done regularly while using this medication. A blood test will indicate whether your treatment is having the desired effect. It will also provide the necessary information for adjusting the dosage to the lowest effective dose, thus decreasing the risk of side effects. Be sure to keep all your appointments.

General notes

When meeting with any health professional, it is important for you to share the following information:

  • Your medical history and allergies (medication, food, or other);
  • If you're pregnant or want to become pregnant, or if you're breastfeeding;
  • If you use tobacco or cannabis or its derivatives, or if you use recreational drugs;
  • The names of all the medications you take, whether you take them regularly or once in a while, including over-the-counter medications, vitamins, and natural health products.


If you think you are allergic to this medication or if you develop a rash, itching, swelling of the face or difficulty breathing after using it, seek medical attention immediately.

It is also strongly recommended that you keep an up-to-date list of all the medications you take and carry it with you at all times. This could be useful if you have to see a health professional or need emergency care.

Keep all your medications out of the reach of children and pets and return any unused or expired medications to the pharmacy for proper disposal.